- STRIVE Magazine honors the DMEXCO Director of Brand & Communications for the second year in a row for her influence on the digital economy
Cologne, October 20, 2026 – Verena Gründel, host and Director of Brand & Communications at DMEXCO, has been named to the list of Germany’s 100 Most Influential Women (STRIVE100) for the second year in a row. With this renewed recognition, STRIVE Magazine honors women who are shaping the future of business, media, politics, and science. The fact that Verena Gründel has been included in this prestigious selection for the second time underscores her ongoing importance to Germany’s digital economy and her role as one of the industry’s leading voices.
Verena Gründel was previously honored in 2025 in the “Impulse Generators” category. As the former editor-in-chief of W&V and current Director of Brand & Communications at DMEXCO, she combines journalistic expertise with strategic communication and a deep understanding of developments at the intersection of media, marketing, and technology. As the host of DMEXCO, she actively shapes the content focus of Europe’s leading digital marketing event and brings the industry’s key future topics to the stage.
Being named to the STRIVE100 once again is more than just a repeat of last year: it shows that influence isn’t just the result of individual achievements, but of consistent leadership, attitude, and visibility. Through her work, Verena Gründel helps advance the digital economy in Germany, spark relevant debates, and connect people from diverse fields.
“Wow, being named one of Germany’s 100 mst influential women for the second time makes me incredibly proud and, to be honest, a little speechless. Especially because I know there’s a fantastic team behind my success. This honor therefore belongs not only to me, but to the entire DMEXCO team. Because real impact is never achieved alone,” says Verena Gründel, host and Director of Brand & Communications at DMEXCO.
With the STRIVE100, STRIVE Magazine underscores its goal of making women in business more visible and establishing new role models. Rather than a ranking, the list showcases 100 individuals who, through their influence, creativity, and sense of responsibility, can serve as role models. This year’s cover women include Conny Zhang, Ayla Busch, and Maja Göpel. For more information about the issue and the STRIVE100, visit www.strive-magazine.de/products/strive100.
